VIDEO: Tributes to train death boy, aged 17

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Published:06:00Updated:14:59Friday 09 January 2015

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A tragic teenager killed when he was hit by a train was today described as a ‘legend’ who had the power to make anyone smile.

Heartbroken friends paid tribute to 17-year-old Josh Vaughan, of Ironstone Crescent, Chapeltown. Josh died when he was hit on the tracks at Chapeltown railway station on Wednesday night. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Friends pay tribute to their friend Josh Vaughan who was struck by a train at Chapeltown train station.

His Ecclesfield Comprehensive schoolfriend Alistair Johnston, 16, said he and his pals were hugely shaken when they heard about the tragedy.

“It was a massive shock when we heard,” he said.

“We thought he was messing around and it was a big joke because that’s what he is like.”

Josh, known as Vagey to his friends, was a huge Sheffield Wednesday fan and played football for Chapeltown Juniors.

“He didn’t score very often but when he did it was a right goal,” said Alistair, of Thorpe Hesley.

“I have so many memories I can’t just pick one in particular.

“He was a brilliant guy and so many people love him. We are going to miss him big time.

“He always had the power to make us smile – he was such a laugh and an absolutely smashing guy.

“He was a legend. He was really bubbly and always had a smile on his face.”

Ecclesfield Comprehensive head Joel Wirth said: “Josh was a popular young man with a ready smile and a good sense of humour.

“He is fondly remembered by staff and students and we share a deep sadness that a young man of such evident potential has been taken from us in such circumstances.

“The death of any young person is first and foremost a family tragedy and we would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Joshua’s parents and relatives at what must be a time of immense difficulty.”

An inquest into his death is expected to be opened next week.

Emergency services were alerted at 9.16pm on Wednesday but medics were unable to revive him and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

His friends are taking a banner to the Owls’ match against Nottingham Forest tomorrow and hope to hold a round of applause in the 17th minute of the game – as he was 17.

Josh, an apprentice with an insurance firm in Sheffield, leaves his parents, younger sister and girlfriend, Chloe.

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